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Fresh Watermelon and Compressed Cucumber Recipe with Feta Snow and Basil Oil

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A refreshing and sophisticated summer salad combining juicy watermelon, compressed cucumbers, fluffy frozen feta snow, and vibrant basil oil. Perfect for hot days and casual entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 small seedless watermelon, cut into cubes or wedges
  • 2 large cucumbers (English or Kirby), peeled and sliced
  • Sea salt (for compressing cucumber)
  • 6 oz (170 g) feta cheese, crumbled and frozen
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, tightly packed
  • ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional garnishes: fresh cracked black pepper, toasted pine nuts or walnuts, microgreens or edible flowers

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Feta Snow: Crumble feta cheese, spread evenly on a tray, and freeze for at least 2 hours or overnight. Once frozen, grate using a microplane or fine grater to create fluffy feta snow. Keep frozen until serving.
  2. Compress the Cucumbers: Peel and slice cucumbers into thin rounds (~1/8 inch thick). Place slices in a vacuum-seal or ziplock bag with a pinch of sea salt. Vacuum seal or press out air and place under a heavy object for 30 minutes. Drain and pat dry.
  3. Make the Basil Oil: Blend fresh basil leaves, olive oil, and a pinch of salt in a food processor until smooth and bright green (about 30 seconds). Strain through a fine sieve for a silky finish. Adjust salt to taste.
  4. Prepare Watermelon: Cut watermelon into bite-sized cubes or wedges, removing seeds if needed. Keep chilled.
  5. Assemble the Salad: Arrange compressed cucumber slices and watermelon pieces on plates. Sprinkle feta snow generously on top. Drizzle basil oil evenly. Add optional cracked black pepper, toasted nuts, or microgreens.
  6. Serve Immediately: Best enjoyed fresh to maintain crisp textures and vibrant flavors.

Notes

Freeze feta cheese at least 2 hours before grating to achieve the snow texture. Compress cucumbers with salt to intensify flavor and texture. Assemble salad just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp. Basil oil can be substituted with mint or cilantro oil. For dairy-free, use frozen grated firm tofu or cashew cheese instead of feta.

Nutrition

Keywords: watermelon salad, compressed cucumber, feta snow, basil oil, summer salad, refreshing salad, easy salad recipe

Find it online: https://cheerycrisp.com/fresh-watermelon-and-compressed-cucumber-recipe-with-feta-snow-and-basil-oil-easy-summer-salad-guide/